Karl Darlow’s admission as ex-Hull City loanee completes Leeds United move from Newcastle
City were keen on signing the experienced goalkeeper earlier this summer
Karl Darlow admits the last 24 hours have been something of a whirlwind after the ex-Hull City loanee completed a move from Newcastle United to Leeds United for an undisclosed fee on a three-year deal.
Darlow spent the second half of last season on loan at City, and the club were keen to bring him back on a permanent basis this summer but opted against pursuing a deal.
Tigers owner Acun Ilicali revealed to Hull Live on Thursday night that only the relegated Premier League clubs could afford to sign the 32-year-old stopper, and City’s Yorkshire rivals have done just that.
“It’s really exciting,” Darlow told the club’s website. “It’s been a bit of a whirlwind, I was in America yesterday and signed for Leeds United today!
“I’m delighted to be here, I can’t wait to get started and I’m excited to join the group, start training and I’m looking forward to the new season.
“It’s an exciting move with the new owners who are ambitious, the manager has a track record in this league and is someone I’ve been keen to work with and I want to try and help the club get back to the Premier League as soon as possible. No matter what club you are at, there are always going to be good goalkeepers and there is a good goalkeeping group here.
“I want to fit into it and challenge, every single player wants to play and I’m looking forward to the next few years here at Leeds.”
Darlow, who began his career at Nottingham Forest, finished last season on loan at the MKM Stadium playing 12 times for the Tigers after struggling for game time at St James’ Park while competing with Nick Pope, Martin Dubravka and Loris Karius. On the prospect of playing in front of Leeds’ fans, Darlow said: “When Elland Road is bouncing it’s an intimidating place to come as an away team.
“If we can get the fans behind us, play good and attractive football and win matches, it could be a really special season.
“I’ve just come from one club with fans who are very passionate about their football to another, so it’s something I’m used to and excited to carry on with throughout my career.”
